What you should know about Laptop Computers

Laptop computer systems keep growing in popularity because they keep increasing in performance and portability. Many companies are marketing notebooks as a replacement for desktop PCs. But so far only a few can perform at the level of a desktop system, particularly the graphics. Just follow this guide to help you to learn some of the key things you'll want to consider before purchasing your next Desktop PC or Laptop System.

Weight and Size of Laptops
Of course the size and weight is very important when you want a notebook computer. The ultra portables offer light weight and sizes. But you lose items such as optical drives. The desktop replacements have power that is equivalent to desktop systems, but they are quite bulky and heavy too. This makes them difficult to carry around. When purchasing a laptop be sure to check the weight (online it should tell you the poundage) in person just pick it up and see how it feels. Then you will know if this is a system you are willing to carry around.

The Processors (CPU)
The laptop processor still lags behind the desktop, although they make up for the lag with their energy efficiency. You should look at the purpose of the notebook processor to decide which one you will need. A replacement for your desktop PC should be a high end processor which would be rated at least 2.0 GHz or higher.

The Memory
In general laptop computers are more restricted in the amount of memory they can have, in comparison to Desktop PCs. Be sure to check the maximum amount of memory the notebook will handle and how much is already installed. You should also find out it the memory can be upgraded at home or only by a tech.

The Display
For Laptop computers you have to look at the native resolution of the screen as the size. Most people prefer a large screen but some have to large of a resolution and it makes standard fonts very difficult to see. The size of the screen will determine the size of the notebook. The newest systems with 17' screens are large and hard to carry around.

The Drive
The hard drive in laptops is straightforward but you will have to check the optical drive because it is very important. One of the cool things about the new laptops is there ability to turn into a portable DVD player. The DVD-FOM or CD-RW combo drive you can watch DVD movies on your computer or plug into your home theater system! A lot of ultra portable laptops don't include the internal optical drive to save on space. So if it is important to watch movies or videos be sure to choose the right notebook with a good internal optical drive.

The Net
Everyone, these days, of course wants to be able to connect to the Internet so look for a laptop computer which includes a built in 56Kbps modem and Fast Ethernet. If you want the ultimate of portability you should get a notebook with computer an integrated 802.11b wireless adapter.

The Battery Life
Be sure to check the laptop manufacturer’s listed battery life for the standard battery. Some will be only 30 minutes per charge! Try to find one that will last at least two hours for normal conditions. If you need longer than that look for a notebook with media bays, because they double as extra battery slots.

The Warranty
Because of the nature of the laptop, being moved around all the time they are more prone to breaking down. So look for a manufacturer warranty of at least one year. If you will be using the notebook a lot a three year manufacturer warranty may be better for you.

Thanx for reading I hope this helps in your furture purchases
Bonnie Archer

Laptops

Five Things To Consider Before Purchasing A Notebook Computer:

There Portable
Extremely lightweight typically weighing less than six pounds a notebook computer will easily fit into a briefcase. Obviously the main reason anyone would purchase a laptop is because it is portable. If you plan to use your notebook computer only in one place than you should buy a desktop computer. Why? Because of the expense, a laptop or notebook computer will cost about twice as much as a desktop that is equipped with the same components. But for those who need the portability it is well worth the cost.

Power and Speed:
Next you should consider the speed you need, or I should say 'want' in your notebook computer. As far as computing power goes, modern notebooks are almost equivalent to desktop PCs. Basically they have all the same components in them: CPUs, memory, capacity, and drives. With all this power in a small package it can get expensive! But if you are a person on the go it is well worth it.

Display Screen:
The quality of the notebook computer display screen will vary greatly. They now have flat panel technologies that will give you a non-bulky, lightweight display screen. Many laptop screens use VGA resolution, although active-matrix screens have sharper images but won't refresh, as quickly as desktop monitors will.

Power Source:
Laptop or notebook computers will run on battery packs that will have to be re-charged. However they can also be plugged in.

Warranties:
Be certain you check the warranty before purchasing a notebook computer. You should know where and how it will be repaired if something happens to it. Don't count on new/small companies' warranties because they may not be in business long. Laptops are moved around a lot so it would be a good idea to get an additional maintenance contract if it is important to always have your notebook computer working. Also, be absolutely sure you check the store return policy! Make sure it is returnable just in case, some stores have a 30-day policy but not all of them!

These are the main considerations when purchasing a notebook or laptop computer. Do you homework and know what you want. Then you will make the right purchase.

Notebook Computer

Questions To Answer Before Buying That New Computer Monitor

Aesthetics and display size are important when purchasing a new computer monitor, but here are several more very important questions to ask.

What will you use your new computer monitor for?
You should think about what type of work you will be doing on your new computer monitor. While one monitor may be great for graphics, you may not need so much for things like spreadsheets.

Where will you use your new computer monitor?
This can be a critical question. Is your space limited? If so you obviously won't want a big bulky computer monitor hogging the space you do have. If this is the case you should consider an LCD instead of a CRT because they are more compact and would definitely leave you more free space.

Here are a few things to consider when deciding between a CRT and a LCD computer monitor. Display size; with an LCD monitor the size it says will be the actual display size. On the other hand, a CRT says 19" but it will only have 18" of actual viewable screen. Resolution on a typical 19" CRT monitor can have a resolution between 800x600 to 1600x1200. But with LCD monitors the resolution is usually set and cannot be changed. If you do lower or raise the resolution it may distort the image.

LCD computer monitors use less than half of the power a CRT computer monitor uses. But CRT monitors responded more quickly than LCDs. It will only be a problem when you use programs that frequently change images like some graphic software and games.

As far as the price CRT computer monitors are two to three times cheaper than LCDs of the same size. But if you buy an LCD that is 15" you have a viewing space of 15 inches. Where as the 15" CRT you have 14 inches of viewable screen.

That brings us to what size new computer monitor do you need? Generally a 17" LCD or 19" CRT will give you the most favorable and comfortable viewing area for most purposes. If you are an avid gamer or into commercial drafting or animation you may need a larger screen. Your best choice may be a CRT computer monitor when comparing the costs of the 21" models due to high costs of similar LCDS.

You've learned a lot about computer monitors now and you should have a good idea what your needs are. You are ready to start comparison-shopping. Another good idea would be to ask your friends what they use and what they like and dislike about their computer monitor.

Good luck! --


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Five Reasons Why You May Consider Buying A Laptop Or Notebook Computer

There Portable!
Extremely lightweight typically weighing less than six pounds and easily fit into a briefcase. Obviously the main reason anyone would purchase a laptop is because it is portable. If you plan to use your notebook only in one place than you should buy a desktop computer. Why? Because of the expense, a laptop or notebook costs about twice as much as a desktop that is equipped with the same components. I know I was quite surprised myself when I started doing new computer research. But for those who need the portability it is well worth the cost.

Power and Speed:
Next you should consider the speed you need, or I should say 'want' in your laptop. As far as computing power goes, modern notebooks are almost equivalent to desktop PCs. Basically they have all the same components in them: CPUs, memory, capacity, and drives. With all this power in a small package it can get expensive! But if you are a person on the go it is well worth it.

Display Screen:
The quality of laptop display screens will vary greatly. They now have flat panel technologies that will give you a non-bulky, lightweight display screen. Many notebook screens use VGA resolution, although active-matrix screens have sharper images but won't refresh, as quickly as desktop monitors will.

Power Source:
Laptop or notebook computers will run on battery packs that will have to be re-charged. However they can also be plugged in.

Warranties:
Be certain you check the warranty before purchasing a laptop computer. You should know where and how it will be repaired if something happens to it. Don't count on new/small companies' warranties because they may not be in business long. Laptops are moved around a lot so it would be a good idea to get an additional maintenance contract if it is important to always have your notebook working. Also, be absolutely sure you check the store return policy! Make sure it is returnable just in case, some stores have a 30-day policy but not all of them!

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Printers

A computer accessory we all need. From inexpensive ink jets to monochrome and color lasers, different printers are designed to do different jobs with your computer. You will have a few choices to make when getting your new printer: price, speed, and print quality are the main ones. Ink jet printers and digital cameras are changing how we print photographs. Load your printer up with special photo inks and paper and ink jet/bubble jet printers have become one of the best options for transforming a digital image into a photograph! For speed and razor sharp text the monochrome laser printers are fantastic.

Scanner

This computer accessory is for input into your computer. Graphic designers will use a scanner often to input pictures etc. If you don't have a digital camera a scanner is the only other way to get pictures into your computer to email, manipulate, add to cards, etc.

Speakers

These are computer accessories that most computers come equipped with. But some people like 'game players' want to upgrade for surround sound. You will find many different versions and brands.

Keyboard and Mouse

These are also computer accessories that usually come with a computer system. Although most people will have to purchase new ones during the life of their computer. This is because they do not last as long as the computer system itself. Of course, it is dependent on how much you use them, how rough you are on them, and how clean you keep them.

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Should I use recycled ink cartridges?

In my opinion everyone should be using recycled ink cartridges! Why not? The quality is the same and you can get savings of up to fifty percent off. But most important is our environment! There are millions of ink cartridges bought every year and only 10-15 percent are currently recycled. Each time you finish a inkjet cartridge you can drop it at an office supply store or obtain an envelope to recycle it. Even Best Buy has a bin you can drop them into to be recycled. I use hp and with each new cartridge you get an envelope to mail your used cartridge back to be recycled, I like that, it is even pre-paid postage! So the use of recycled ink cartridges is a win win!

Will the print quality of a recycled ink cartridge be the same as a new ink cartridge?

Most manufacturers only use high quality inks, which are specifically for inkjet cartridges. They should guarantee the print quality, check the policy before purchasing.

Will I get the same number of print pages with a remanufactured cartridge?

All recycled inkcartridges have a specific amount of ink to begin their lifespan and that determines the printing capacity. Each cartridge is weighed for the correct amount of ink during processing and re-checked during quality control.

Bonnie Archer
A1-computers.net

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Is it all right if I keep printing when my ink cartridge is showing signs of running out of ink?

Just as you would not let your car run empty on gas, you also should not let your ink tank run empty. Several reasons: The Ink helps the resistors from overheating. So printing on empty can cause un-reparable heat damage to those resistors. If you use three-color cartridges and one color runs out you are risking damaging the cartridge if you continue to use it with only one tank empty! So, keep at least one extra on hand so you never have to worry about damaging your printer. And you know when you don't have extra they always run out when your daughter has a report due tomorrow and its midnight!

How do I know my ink cartridge is running low?

Many modern printers will tell you when it is running low by popping up a message on your computer screen. But if not here are two good ways to tell: white streaks or lighter than normal print or pictures. Sometimes a clogged nozzle can cause these same problems these so be sure to check that out also.


B. Archer
A1-Computers.net

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Surplus Computers and Discount Computers Are New Computers!

Surplus computer just means that manufacturer excess, overstock, and slightly obsolete inventories in HUGE quantities were purchased. What that means for you, our customer, is truly remarkable discount computer prices! These benefits and values of surplus computers were traditionally available to only large volume commercial buyers, dealers, and corporate level buyers. But now discount computers are also sold retail so you can get all the benefits too.

The sellers of surplus computers and discount computers are committed to offering tremendous savings to you, the retail customer. Desktop PCs, laptops, notebooks, barebones, whole computer systems, computer accessories, everything in computers you can find in surplus and discount computers.

Repackaged products are sometimes sold as surplus computers or discount computers but they are always evaluated, tested and quality assured, fully functional and repackaged for shipment.

Also, sometimes sold as surplus computers or discount computers are open Box products which are retested, quality assured, fully functional and complete. The customer can expect original manufacturer packaging.

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DVD Writer; Should You Buy One Yet?

DVD writers are the quickest growing division in the storage industry today. Because the optical CD is quickly becoming outdated by size limits DVD writers are positioned to become the next common storage method. They also give you the ability to generate your own digital quality movies. Every parent in the country wants one to share there child’s new milestones on a permanent high quality device. So does this all mean its the right time for you to run out and buy one?

The advantages:

Two advantages to the DVD writers you can buy today are storage and digital video. The standards out there will store 4.7 gigabytes or more on a single disk. That is eight times the capacity of the standard CD media on the market.

If you are using a DVD writer to create backups of your data from your hard drive you will have much fewer discs in storage compared to those produced from a CD writer.

Most of the DVD writers on the market allow encoding of digital video from your computer to another source of DVD media that can be played back on most DVD players. This means you can take old VHS tapes and convert them to DVDs, which is a more permanent storage option and sent to friends and relatives much easier.

The disadvantages:

Which DVD writer do you buy? Right now there are four kinds in the DVD writers on the market; DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW. They each have advantages and disadvantages. The biggest disadvantage to all of them is that not one format is guaranteed to work on all DVD players.

DVD writer price may also be a disadvantage. Recordable CDs can be found for one
dollar or less. The average price at the time of this writing for a writeable DVD is $7 per disk. Per megabyte the price is similar to the CD, but mistakes in writing to the disk cost a lot more. As more and more people buy DVD writers this price will become more in line with the writable CD.


So now what?

Remember the 80's when there was Beta and VHS? My brother in law opted to get the
Beta. Boy was he disappointed when VHS won out and he could no longer buy or rent
tapes for his machine! Well the same kind of battle is going on right now with the DVD writer formats. So us consumers are left waiting to see which format will win. What does this mean to you? If you get a drive now the format of the drive may not end up being the one finally selected by the industry. Then your data will not be compatible with the newer drives. Which could lead to more expensive media because most manufacturers only produce for the largest segment of the market. (Ex. Microsoft vs. Apple) Once the single standard format of DVD writers is chosen the price will drop because the license fees that the manufacturers have to pay will go down which will provide more competition for the consumer. Right now there is no clear indication of when this standard format will be selected.


You say you want a DVD writer today?

If you just can't wait there is hope! Sony just started selling their DRU-500A DVD
recordable drive. It supports all the 'current' DVD and CD recording standards that are on the market today. If you buy this drive it will support whichever drive is selected for the industry standard. But, if you wait and buy a DVD writer later you will eventually have a selection of standard drive formats, better performing drives and the price will probably be much lower than the drives on the market today.


B. Archer
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What kind of processor do you need on your new Desktop PC?

If you plan to do basic office work on you new Desktop PC or the usual Internet stuff; surfing and email, any processor will work for your computer equipment needs.

Will just any computer equipment do for you?
You say you need a Desktop PC to work with graphics, Video, Music, or large databases? Than on your new computer equipment you will really need more power then the basic new computer provides. AMD Athlon XP or Intel Pentium4 is your best bets for this kind of work. Either will support the most demanding work. Bargain price computer systems with either kind of chip with fast speeds can be found.

For Desktop PCs Intel has a newer motherboard chip for its Pentium4 and Celeron. With the higher speed front side bus, data moves more quickly from the processor to the system memory. You can find these boards on Intel's 850 and 845 models. Just check the front side bus speed to make sure you are getting the right one before you buy computer.

A1-Computers

Your Guide To Basic Computer Terminology

Ram? Mouse? Isn't one a animal and one a rodent? Ram...that’s the zodiac sign for Aries... If this is what these words mean to you than you can surely use this quick glossary of computer terminology. It would be a good idea to read through them before purchasing a computer because these are things you should know about first. If you already have a computer then these computer terms can help you know what to do if your new computer equipment is unfamiliar. Lastly, this computer terminology can help you if you have to call in for technical help.

Lets go!

Cache: Cache is another type of memory kindred to RAM. The computer uses cache to quickly move data between the RAM and the CPU.

CD-ROM Drive: Most new computers now come with a CD-ROM drive as standard equipment. A CD-ROM drive reads data from a disc. These CDs look like a music CD, but hold data instead of music. CD-ROMs also contain games, dictionaries, recipe files, and lots of other things that you can load onto your computer.

CPU: The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brains of the computer. Most new Windows based programs use a Pentium processor or a AMD Athlon XP. New Macs use a different type of CPU called Power PC.

Disk Drive:Virtually all computers come with a disk drive that can read and save information on portable diskettes, also called floppy disks. You can use floppy disks to save information or to load new software onto your computer.

Hard Drive: The hard drive is also called the hard disk. You'll probably never see it because it is nestled inside your computer. It's the computer's electronic filling cabinet, and it stores the computer's operating system, files, programs and documents.

Keyboard: Just like a typewriter keyboard, this device is the primary way of inputting data into the computer programs.

Megahertz (MHz): This is the clock speed of the microprocessor. The higher the number, the quicker the information is processed. MHz relates to how many millions of instructions can be processed per second.

Memory:This is the circuitry or device that holds information in an electrical or magnetic form. There is read-only memory (ROM), which is information primarily stored on a disk, and random-access memory (RAM), which is chip-based storage inside the computer. Memory is typically measured in megabytes (MBs).

Modem:This mechanism connects a computer to a phone line so information can be sent from one computer to another or the user can access an on-line service or the Internet. In view of the popularity of the Internet, a modem is now considered basic equipment and comes on practically all-new computers. Most modems come with fax capabilities.

Monitor: An output device that allows you to see what you are doing (it is what you are looking into right now to see this). Most computers come with 14 or 15-inch monitors. This size is good for most people's needs. Larger 17 or 21-inch monitors also are available, but may cost more. Myself, I prefer the 17-inch.

Motherboard:The motherboard is the circuit board that everything in the computer plugs into. The CPU, RAM and cache all plug into the motherboard.

Mouse: The mouse is another input device that makes getting around in your computer easier. It is a handheld object that is good for doing tasks such as moving and pointing to objects on the screen, and can replace the function and control keys of the keyboard. (If you need a lesson on how the mouse works and how to use it click here for a tutorial.)

Printer: A printer is an essential part of the computer if you want a hard copy of your work. There are four types of printers on the market: dot matrix, inkjet, bubble jet and laser. The dot matrix is the most basic. Most inkjets and bubble jets can print color and graphics, and a laser printer offers the best resolution at the highest speed.

RAM:Computers save data in two ways: on the hard drive and in random access memory or internal memory. New computer buyers should look for models with at least 16 MBs of RAM (or more, depending on what types of programs you'll be running). Make sure that the computer can be upgraded.

Scanner:A scanner is a useful accessory to have if you are working with lots of artwork or photos. This device can copy written documents, pictures or photographs directly into your computer. There are three types of scanners: handheld, hopper-feed and flatbed.

Sound Card: This device allows your computer to reproduce music, sounds and voices. Make sure you have a sound card if you're planning to play multimedia games.

Video Card: The video card is the part of the computer that sends the images to the monitor.

Well there you have it, a quick course on computer terms. I hope it has helped to guide you in your purchase of a new computer; or to help you with the one you have.

A1-Computers.net

Why Buy a New Laptop or Notebook Computer?

Maybe you say your laptop works fine when it comes to word processing and internet e-mail. But, wouldn't it be fun to expand your notebook computer and be able to create your own music CDs, home movie DVDs, maybe some digital photography, or even some serious gaming! With a new laptop you could even use broadband to surf a lot faster...Isn't it time you checked out some of the new notebook computers?

Processor:
Intel's Pentium4 and AMD's Athlon XP processors now have significant gains in laptop performance since the last generation. The processor is what gives the notebook its power to get up and go. The newest notebook computer versions have much improved for a wide range of activities; broadband connections, surfing the web, printing digital photos, 3-D games, making music, and videos.

Operating System:
The new Microsoft Windows XP® has improved stability for laptops as well as pcs and its newest features make for a more enjoyable experience when working with digital music, digital photography, and videos. Notebook computer communication is also much easier with the new multimedia messaging and networking functionality.

Memory:
Most notebook computers now offer DDR SDRAM memory and it will give you a lot higher bandwidth, which in turn gives you better total system performance. Your experience with the new laptops will be better no matter which applications you are using.

Network Interface Card:
Most new laptops include integrated network interface cards. These give you a direct network connection and let you get connected to the latest modems like high speed DSL and cable modems as well. So with these new notebook computer interface cards you won't have to buy or install a separate card.

Wireless:
Of course, the main reason people want a laptop computer is because they can pick up and go. This wireless technology is a great benefit of the high-end notebook computer. With wireless you can hook up to the Internet, synchronize your handheld, print, with out cables to constantly connect and disconnect.


Discover the very best laptop and notebook computers Check out some of the new and innovative laptop computers now on the market. Shop wisely and make sure your new notebook computer has all the great options you want before you click on 'check out'.

B. Archer
A1-Computers.net

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What You Should Know Before You Buy Computer Equipment
There are so many factors to consider when deciding on which
computer equipment to buy. The bewildering amount of choices
can seem overwhelming.

What kind of processor do you need on your new Desktop PC?
Will just any computer equipment do for you?If you plan to do
basic office work on you new Desktop PC or the usual Internet
stuff; surfing and email, any processor will work for your computer
equipment needs.

Why Buy a New Laptopor Notebook Computer?
Discover the very best laptop and notebook computers.
Wouldn't it be fun to expand your notebook computer
and be able to create your own music CDs, home movie
DVDs, maybe some digital photography, or even some
serious gaming!

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What You Should Know Before You Buy Computer Equipment

There are so many factors to consider when deciding on which computer equipment to buy. The bewildering amount of choices can seem overwhelming. This guide will help you compare computer equipment features, and help you to examine and sift through many of the basic items before you buy a new computer. If it be a desktop PC, laptop, discount/surplus computer, a refurbished computer or a computer accessory, this quick guide will help you to get the most for your money.

With today's computer equipment almost any of them will adequately handle what most people need to buy a new computer for; word processing, basic office, internet surfing and email. Which you can buy for about $1000. or less! But if you are into digital videos, photo editing, music, or manage a large database you will need more than the basic Desktop PC or Laptop. This higher end computer will cost you around $1500-$2000.

(CPU) Processors
There is always a lot of change in the computer market, but no matter what the upgrades there is always two basic choices to be made when purchasing computer equipment: 1) brand 2) speed. To buy a new computer that handles standard office and Internet tasks any processor will work.

Need more 'power' in your computer equipment? Then the Intel Pentium4 or the AMD Athlon XP (great for graphics and photos which use a lot of memory space) are for you.If you buy a new computer one or two levels from the top you will only lose about five percent per tier performance but you can save a couple hundred dollars!

(RAM) Memory
Memory is very important because optimum running of your computer equipment is dependent on enough RAM. The minimum amount should be 256MB, for better performance you should get 512MB. If you can afford to buy a new computer with more, you should. It's worth it because you can keep more applications open and it will easily handle memory hogs like Photoshop and music applications!

Monitors
When buying computer equipment look for a monitor that is at least 17" with a resolution of 1280 by 1024 pixels. A Desktop PC with a 19-inch monitor gives you 20 % more screen area. If you can spend $300-$450 on a monitor when you buy a new computer you might want to get a 15" LCD because it has the same viewable area as the 17" CRT and takes up much less space.

Hard Drives (storage)
Most hard drives sold today will provide more than enough storage. The basic computer equipment comes with 40GB or larger, which is plenty for most tasks. But for working with graphics, video, music, or large databases 80GB should be the minimum you settle for. 7200-rpm drives give better performance. But for the best performance get a computer with 8MB of cache.

Warranty and Tech Support
A one-year warranty on most computer equipment is enough, because most problems seem to happen in the first year. If you want you can get an extended two to three year warranty for around $150. to $200. If you buy a Dell you can get priority call routing to tech support for a year for only $39.

Author
Bonnie Archer
A1-computers.net

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